Social unrest at Bombardier

12th March 2008, 0 comments

Trade unions of train and tram manufacturer Bombardier in Bruges are worried about the possibility of missing a contract with Belgian Rail.

The trade unions of train and tram manufacturer Bombardier in Bruges are worried about the possibility of missing a contract with Belgian Rail (NMBS). The contract in question is for 1200 train cars for the Regional Expressnet (GEN) in Brussels.

According to the Bombardier unions, the NMBS allegedly gave the contract conditionally to the German firm Siemens, which can deliver the trains at a cheaper price.

The unions say that the GEN contract is crucial for the very existence of Bombardier after 2010.

"Cost should not be the only condition- quality should also be taken into account and Bombardier has a good product," stresses trade unionist Steven Bogaerts.

The unions are meeting at the moment in Bruges to come up with a common stance on the issue.

Friday the unions are planning a demonstration at the headquarters of Belgian Rail in Brussels. They hope to increase pressure on Belgian Rail. The NMBS is not commenting on the situation at the moment.